Sep 14, 2020
In need of reasons for a weekend in Brisbane? Read on to discover the newest additions to the river city along with our old favourites. From entertainment and culture to markets and shopping, this is your excuse to duck away to Brisbane city for a weekend with your loved one(s).
Enjoy a beachside ice cream and a swim at South Bank before a bike ride along the riverside boardwalk. Explore ancient artwork, then applaud the latest music acts. Cosy up with your special someone back in the hotel room before dropping by the newest (or oldest) bar.
Your city escape awaits...
Be Entertained
The Fortitude Valley Music HallDrawing inspiration from famous art deco buildings throughout Brisbane’s history, The Fortitude Valley Music Hall is Australia’s largest ballroom and theatre venue opening mid-2019. This brand new venue has been brought to life by ex-Powerfinger bassist, John "JC" Collins and Queensland builder Scott Hutchinson. This is their answer to Festival Hall – check out the amazing array of shows on display.
The Fortitude Valley Music Hall | Image by @vsualsaus via InstagramThe Tivoli
The Tivoli has long been one of Brisbane’s favourite and most popular music venues hosting an eclectic mix of talent. Filled with old world charm, the venue has been host to musical heroes including Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, Missy Higgins, Silverchair, Powderfinger, Ben Folds, Gene Simmons and Bob Dylan to name a few. The venue is currently featuring the Temper Trap, the Bowie Experience, and Opeth – just to prove there really is something for all tastes and entertainment styles.
The Triffid
An old commercial hangar that merges industrial décor with state of the art technology, this Newstead venue has brought some impressive international and Australian acts to Brisbane.
The Zoo
This Fortitude Valley based venue is one of Australia’s longest standing music venues and is independently owned and operated by females for the past 27 years. Upcoming gigs include a mix of new local talent as well as touring shows.
Visit the Markets
Davies MarketsEvery Saturday from 6am to 2pm on the corner of Montague Road and Jane Street, Davies Park, West End you will find Davies Markets. This weekly event is packed to the brim with fresh produce, food stalls, art, clothing, and more. Be sure to grab a freshly cut coconut on your way in to stay hydrated while you explore.
Jan Powers Farmers Markets
Each Saturday the Brisbane Powerhouse is transformed into a rustic venue featuring over 120 stalls of flowers, artisan products, breads, pastries, fresh product, plants and more. What better way to start your city weekend escape than a freshly squeezed juice (or artesian coffee) and pastry breakfast?
@saucywenchsauces at the @janpowersfarmersmarkets via InstagramBrisbane City Markets
If you’re a rebel who’s enjoying their city weekend escape mid-week you have your choice of visiting Brisbane City Markets at Reddacliff Place (end of Queen St Mall) on a Wednesday or Cathedral Square (corner of Ann and Wharf St) on a Thursday. You will be greeted with premium produce, meats, and artisan goods as well as trawler direct seafood and amazing street eats!
Absorb the Culture
GOMA & Science MuseumWe love GOMA because they cater so well to the diverse market that travel to and enjoy Brisbane. The Gallery of Modern Art is home to world class exhibitions, events, and interactive installations. Take a free guided tour, enjoy one of the visiting collections, or simply wander at your own pace.
Be sure to check out ‘what’s on’ before you visit as there are always great free events such as Toddler Tuesday, which is a free program that incorporates storytelling, games and activities to engage young ones and their carers.
GOMA's Island Fashion Kids Space & Free Workshops | Image by @qagoma via InstagramQPAC
From ABBA, Dirty Dancing and A Streetcar Named Desire to Shrek and the Book of Mormon there is an incredible array of world-class performances on offer at QPAC. Chicago, Bohemian Rhapsody and The Wiz are our top choices currently on sale.
Must-Visit Drinking Holes
Eleven Rooftop BarWith drinking on the top of buildings (adorned with fairy lights) becoming increasingly popular, Eleven rooftop bar is Brisbane’s answer to this sought-after activity with an beautiful décor and ambience. Not to mention they have an impressive cocktail menu you can shake an olive-covered-toothpick at.
The Normanby
With over 129 years of history, the hotel has been resurrected to her former beauty and is well-established as one of the city's favourite watering holes. The bar boasts 25 beers and 8 wines on tap meaning there is a drop for everyone.
Howard Smith Wharf
Brisbane’s newest entertainment and lifestyle destination enjoys a picturesque location under the Story Bridge with city and river views. Howard Smith Wharves is the new home to GRECA Greek Taverna, Felons Brewing Co, ARC Dining and Wine Bar, Mr Percival’s Overwater Bar and multiple green spaces with picnic areas if you need a break from the city.
The new Howard Smith Wharf | Image by @howardsmithwharves via InstagramGetting Around
It wouldn’t be a trip to Brisbane without hiring bikes (or the new electric scooters!) and riding around South Bank or across one of the bridges. You can walk or ride across the William Jolly, Victoria, Goodwill and Story Bridge. This is the perfect way to see the city and burn some calories to make up for the ice cream you will most definitely stop for along the way!The CityCat is a must do for visitors. Whether you’ve grown up in Brisbane or are visiting, there is something so enjoyable about getting on a ferry and sailing down the river.
For a particularly romantic walk, sunset at Kangaroo Point cliffs is simply stunning. The walkway takes you along the river with a backdrop of a beautifully lit cliff covered in greenery.
Shopping
Retail therapy is a tried and true method of relaxation and what better way to unwind during your weekend city escape?Queens Plaza
Queens Plaza is the obvious choice for high-end retailers including the two-storey David Jones store, Sass & Bide, Zimmerman and Tiffany and Co. to name a few.
Queens Plaza | Image by @viktoriaandwoods via InstagramMyer Centre
The Myer Centre is the largest of the city’s shopping offerings with an Event Cinema and arcade to keep the little ones (or big ones) entertained for hours.
MacArthur Centre
MacArthur Centre is also home to a few luxury boutiques, but is better known for its practical stores – the city’s only full sized Woolies. There is also a Big W, Priceline, JBHiFi, and BWS.
Brisbane Arcade
Take a step back in time when you arrive at Brisbane Arcade, you’ll likely be dropping by this two level centre for the history and jewellery – there are over 20 designers and stores.
Tattersall Arcade
Tattersall Arcade is another historical gem built in 1923 named after the exclusive club. Now you’ll find a myriad of menswear boutiques and authentically Italian cannoli and coffee at Marchetti.
Wintergarden
The Wintergarden is featuring a newly designed façade with steel butterflies. The centre features an excellent mixture of boutiques and specialises in menswear, perfect if you are shopping with or for the man in your life.
The Wintergarden Shopping Centre | Image by @wintergardenbrisbaneQueen St Mall
While Brisbane City boasts an impressive array of shopping centres, you can easily be entertained simply strolling down Queen St, where you’ll find multi-level mega stores including Zara, H&M and Uniqlo, as well as staples - Lorna Jane, Cotton On, Myer, Rebel Sport, Sports Girl, and more.
James Street
Stepping (slightly) outside Brisbane CBD and onto the leafy urban strip of James Street you will surround yourself with the most flagship stores for Australian and International designers you’ll find in the state! From Aje and Zimmerman to Lee Matthews and Sass & Bide this strip is packed with class. Of course you’ll find your old favourites including Mac, 2XU, Mecca and Lululemon who host weekly yoga on Sundays free of charge!
Convinced you need an escape? Call us on 1300 788 553 now or check out our Brisbane hot deals!
Subscribe for more travel articles & great deals!
Unsubscribe anytime.